Systems and methods for conditioning or vaporizing fuel in a reciprocating internal combustion engine

ABSTRACT

A system and method for conditioning and/or vaporizing fuel within an internal combustion engine in order to effectuate more complete combustion is provided. In one embodiment of the invention, the system comprises a combustion chamber; a fuel conditioning cavity defined by walls fluidly connected to the combustion chamber; a fuel injector system for ejecting a fuel spray through the fuel conditioning cavity; and an electromagnetic wave source electromagnetically configured for introducing electromagnetic waves into the fuel conditioning cavity and into the fuel spray to effectuate volumetric heating of a droplet of the fuel spray once ejected from the fuel injector.

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 60/316,011 filed Aug. 29, 2001.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to improving the emission quality and fuelmileage of reciprocating internal combustion engines, such as diesel andgasoline engines, by introducing electromagnetic energy within acylinder or pre-cylinder chamber or cavity. The present invention alsorelates to improving the efficiency and effectiveness of sparkgeneration in a cylinder of a reciprocating internal combustion engine.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In the reciprocating internal combustion engine, improved emissions andfuel mileage are areas of constant focus. One area where improvementscan be made includes liquid fuel vaporization, particularly with respectto fuels such as gasoline and diesel fuels. For such fuels to beeffective, the fuel should be converted from a liquid to a vapor, nomatter how small a liquid fuel droplet is in size.

In order for a reciprocating engine to generate power, the fuel usedmust explode rather than burn slowly (as the engine combustion cycle istoo short for a slowly burning liquid fuel to burn completely before theexhaust cycle begins). This is particularly a problem with the dieselengine, as the fuel must be injected into the combustion chamber inliquid spray form, vaporized, and self-ignited in the same combustioncycle. Even under normal operating conditions, diesel fuel tends toself-ignite before being vaporized completely. Further, at cold start,the vaporization is even less complete, exacerbating problems associatedwith poor emissions. For example, soot can build up due to incompleteuse of the fuel. Additionally, increased harmful exhaust results whenthe fuel is not completely consumed in the fuel burning process.

Many of these problems can be solved and improved emissions can beeffectuated if the fuel is essentially completely vaporized prior toignition. However, conventional heating of a fuel to a useful degreebefore injection is not desirable, as overheating of liquid fuel in thefuel line can cause vapor lock. Additionally, marginal heating to avoidvapor lock does not contribute significantly to an improvement invaporization.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It has been recognized that it would be advantageous to develop a fuelconditioning system to increase the efficiency of reciprocating internalcombustion engines.

The invention provides fuel conditioning systems, systems for enhancingthe ignition power of fuel, wireless fuel ignition devices, and methodsfor conditioning and igniting fuels for more complete combustion, all ofwhich utilize functional electromagnetic energy to effectuate a morecomplete combustion. Fuels for which these technologies can be usedinclude gasolines, diesel fuels, oils, alcohols, biodiesel, otheralternative fuels, or the like, though gasolines and diesel fuels aremost preferred.

Specifically, a reciprocating internal combustion engine for enhancedfuel efficiency can comprise a combustion chamber, a fuel conditioningcavity defined by walls fluidly connected to the combustion chamber, afuel injector system for ejecting a fuel spray through the fuelconditioning cavity, and an electromagnetic wave source configured forintroducing electromagnetic waves into the fuel conditioning cavity andfuel spray. The wave source can be further configured to effectuatevolumetric heating of a droplet of the fuel spray once ejected from thefuel injector.

Also disclosed is a fuel conditioning system for delivering fuel to acombustion chamber of a reciprocating internal combustion engine. Thissystem can comprise a fuel conditioning cavity defined by walls having areflective surface, an electromagnetic energy source, an energyconcentrating region, and a fuel injector. The electromagnetic energysource can be within or operable within the fuel conditioning cavitysuch that the electromagnetic energy source is configured to emitelectromagnetic energy toward the walls. The energy concentrating regioncan be disposed within the fuel conditioning cavity, wherein theelectromagnetic energy can be reflected from the walls to the energyconcentrating region, thereby providing concentrated energy in theenergy concentrating region that is greater than in regions outside theenergy concentrating region. The fuel injector can have a dispensing endconfigured for dispensing a fuel spray with a trajectory through theenergy concentrating region. Also, the fuel conditioning cavity may bedefined by walls, wherein a cross-section of the cavity is substantiallyshaped as a cylinder, a parabola, an ellipse, a mathematical ellipse, orother geometric shape. Alternatively, such configurations can be presentwithin the cavity for reflecting electromagnetic energy.

In another embodiment, an alternative fuel conditioning system fordelivering fuel to a combustion chamber of a reciprocating internalcombustion engine can comprise a fuel conditioning cavity defined bywalls, a fuel injector, an electromagnetic energy source, and an energyconcentrating region. The fuel injector can be configured for ejecting atrajectory of fuel spray into the fuel conditioning cavity. Theelectromagnetic energy source can be configured for introducingelectromagnetic energy into the fuel conditioning cavity into or throughthe trajectory, wherein the electromagnetic energy source is furtherconfigured to effectuate volumetric heating of fuel spray dropletsejected from the fuel injector. The energy concentrating region can bedisposed within the fuel conditioning cavity such that theelectromagnetic energy is received from the electromagnetic energysource. The energy concentrating region can also be configured forreceiving greater energy concentration from the electromagnetic energysource compared to regions outside the energy concentrating region. Thefuel conditioning cavity may be defined by walls, wherein thecross-section of the cavity is substantially shaped as a cylinder, aparabola, an ellipse, or a mathematical ellipse, though other geometricconfigurations are also within the scope of the present invention.

Any of the aforementioned embodiments comprising a fuel conditioningsystem may include air holes or vents configured to increase theefficiency of the combustion process. Depending on the desired fuelconditioning cavity and/or electromagnetic source configuration, the airholes can be placed such that interference with the electromagneticallyreflective properties of various surfaces is minimized.

A wireless spark plug for use in a reciprocating internal combustionengine is also disclosed and can comprise a housing configured forremovably coupling the wireless spark plug to a combustion chamber of acylinder, an antenna receiving device coupled to the housing having agap configured for generating a spark and an energy sourceelectromagnetically coupled to the antenna receiving device by anelectromagnetic wave such that a spark is generated at the gap.

A method for conditioning fuel for use in a reciprocating internalcombustion engine is also disclosed. The method can comprise the stepsof injecting fuel into a fuel conditioning cavity defined by wallswithin a reciprocating internal combustion engine; and emittingelectromagnetic waves into the fuel conditioning cavity and reflectingthe electromagnetic waves from the cavity walls into the fuel spray tocause molecular vibrational resonant absorption with respect to the fuelspray. The electromagnetic waves may be configured to cause molecularvibrational resonance within the fuel droplets of the spray.

Additional features and advantages of the invention will be apparentfrom the detailed description which follows, taken in conjunction withthe accompanying drawings, which together illustrate, by way of example,features of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the accompanying drawings which illustrate embodiments of theinvention:

FIG. 1 is a schematic drawing of a fuel conditioning or vaporizationsystem for delivering substantially vaporized fuel to a combustionchamber of a reciprocating internal combustion engine;

FIGS. 2a and 2 b are schematic drawings as viewed in cross-section andfrom a bottom perspective, respectively, of a removable fuelconditioning or vaporizing system in accordance with principles of thepresent invention;

FIGS. 3a-c are schematic drawings showing an embodiment of anoperational mode of the present invention;

FIGS. 4a and 4 b are inside perspective and side schematic views,respectively, of an alternative fuel conditioning system forsubstantially vaporizing fuel in a substantially ellipticallycross-sectioned cavity of a reciprocating internal combustion engine;

FIGS. 5a and 5 b are inside perspective and bottom schematic views,respectively, of another alternative fuel conditioning system forsubstantially vaporizing fuel in an substantially cylindrical fuelconditioning cavity of a reciprocating internal combustion engine;

FIGS. 6a and 6 b are inside perspective and bottom schematic views,respectively, of another alternative fuel conditioning system forsubstantially vaporizing fuel via substantially parabolic walls of afuel cavity of a reciprocating internal combustion engine;

FIGS. 7a and 7 b are inside perspective and bottom schematic views,respectively, of another alternative fuel conditioning system forsubstantially vaporizing fuel in an fuel conditioning cavity of areciprocating internal combustion engine;

FIGS. 8a and 8 b are perspective and side schematic views, respectively,of a periodically poled lithium niobate (PPLN) optical parametricoscillator that can be used to introduce electromagnetic energy into afuel conditioning chamber of a reciprocating internal combustion engine;

FIG. 9 is a schematic drawing of another alternative fuel conditioningsystem for substantially vaporizing fuel in a reciprocating internalcombustion engine with an indirect fuel injection system;

FIGS. 10a, 10 b, 11 a, and 11 b depict embodiments of wireless sparkplugs that can be used within a cylinder of a reciprocating internalcombustion engine that requires a spark; and

FIGS. 12 and 13 show a schematic representation of an alternate systemof fuel conditioning utilizing a traveling wave resonator.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT(S)

Before the present invention is disclosed and described, it is to beunderstood that this invention is not limited to the particularstructures, process steps, and materials disclosed herein as suchprocess steps and materials may vary to some degree. It is also to beunderstood that the terminology used herein is used for the purpose ofdescribing particular embodiments only and is not intended to belimiting, as the scope of the present invention will be limited only bythe appended claims and equivalents thereof.

It must be noted that, as used in this specification and the appendedclaims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referentsunless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

“Volumetric heating” or “volumetric vaporization” includes the use ofelectromagnetic energy to condition and/or vaporize fuel dropletsthroughout its volume, preferably essentially simultaneously. This is incontrast to conventional surface heating via conduction and convection.Volumetric heating can occur by preferably achieving molecular resonantabsorption, though this is not required. Complete vaporization is notrequired, though a more complete vaporization can result in a cleanerrunning engine.

“Electromagnetic wave” or “electromagnetic energy” includes anywavelengths of electromagnetic energy that are functional with thepresent inventions. Preferably, such wavelengths range from microwave toinfrared. Specifically, with respect to embodiments where a standingwave is created in a fuel conditioning cavity or combustion chamber,wavelengths that are comparable to the general size of the fuelconditioning cavity are preferred. For example, as the typical fuelconditioning cavity size can be around a few centimeters (“cm”), i.e.,from about 2 to 10 cm, a preferred wavelength can be from 0.1 mm to 10cm. In embodiments where electromagnetic energy is reflected from a fuelconditioning cavity or combustion chamber wall and is focused orconcentrated at a remote location, wavelengths much shorter than thegeneral cross-sectional size of the fuel conditioning cavity (about onefifth or less) can be used. For example, wavelengths from about 0.1 μmto about 1 mm can be used.

Reference will now be made to the exemplary embodiments illustrated inthe drawings, and specific language will be used herein to describe thesame. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scopeof the invention is thereby intended. Alterations and furthermodifications of the inventive features illustrated herein, andadditional applications of the principles of the inventions asillustrated herein, which would occur to one skilled in the relevant artand having possession of this disclosure, are to be considered withinthe scope of the invention.

Referring now to FIG. 1, a fuel conditioning system 10 for use with areciprocating internal combustion engine for enhancing fuel efficiencyis shown. The fuel conditioning system 10 generally comprises acombustion chamber wall 12 defining a combustion chamber 14, a pistonhead 16, and a fuel conditioning cavity wall 21 defining a fuelconditioning cavity 22. The fuel conditioning cavity in this embodimentis fluidly coupled to the combustion chamber 14. In one embodiment, thecavity wall 21 of fuel conditioning cavity 22 can be, at least in part,comprised of a material that acts as an optical mirror. Thus, a surfacefor reflecting electromagnetic waves 28, once introduced into the fuelconditioning cavity, can be provided.

A fuel injector 18 is also shown which can be configured to introduce afuel spray 20 at appropriate times in conjunction with the cyclicmovement of the piston head, as is known by those skilled in the art.The fuel spray contains fuel spray droplets, each having a fuelmolecular absorption resonant frequency. If the cylinder is for agasoline engine, then a spark is required to ignite the vaporized fuelspray. However, for a diesel engine, no spark is required to ignite thevaporized fuel spray. As in most diesel engines, from one to eight (oreven more) fuel injector nozzles can be positioned radially in a singlecylinder as is known by those skilled in the art. In the context of thepresent invention, each injector nozzle can be placed in its own fuelconditioning cavity. With any fuel type, the fuel conditioning cavity 22can be positioned such that the fuel spray 20 passes through the fuelconditioning cavity 22 before entering the combustion chamber 14.

An electromagnetic energy source 24 is also shown which is configured tointroduce appropriate electromagnetic waves 28 into the fuelconditioning cavity 22. The electromagnetic energy source 24 isconfigured to emit an electromagnetic wavelength suitable forvolumetrically heating fuel drops in the fuel conditioning cavity 22. Anelectromagnetic wave channeling device 26, such as a waveguide, laser,optical fiber, nonlinear optical device such as periodically poledlithium niobate device (PPLN), or other device, or any combination ofthe above can be used to couple the electromagnetic waves to the fuelconditioning cavity 22.

In an alternative embodiment, the fuel conditioning cavity 22,electromagnetic waves or energy 28, and the molecular absorptionresonant frequency of the fuel can be configured to provide conditionssuch that the emitted electromagnetic waves 28 can form anelectromagnetic standing wave. Additionally, the electromagnetic wavesare preferably selected such that molecular rotational and/orvibrational absorption occurs within the fuel droplets as the fuel spray20 passes through the standing electromagnetic wave. Thus, the fuelconditioning cavity 22 and electromagnetic waves 28 can be selected at asize such that a standing wave can be created, while at the same timethe electromagnetic waves are within a wavelength range to effectuateenough molecular rotational and/or vibrational absorption to promotevolumetric heating of the fuel.

In accordance with FIG. 1, the combustion chamber wall 12 can work as aheat sink and be comprised of heat conducting metal. A liquid coolant(not shown) can optionally be circulated along the exterior for coolingpurposes. By making the fuel conditioning cavity a part of the cylinderwall bulk, excessive heating of the fuel conditioning cavity structurecan be avoided.

In FIGS. 2a and 2 b, an alternative embodiment is shown in two views,i.e., a cross-sectional view (FIG. 2a) and a perspective bottom viewfrom within the cylinder (FIG. 2b). The fuel injector 18 and the fuelconditioning cavity 22 correspond to FIG. 1. However, in thisembodiment, two additional elements are present. First, a plurality ofair holes or vents 30 are shown. More specifically, several radiallyconfigured air vents 30 (two shown in cross-section in FIG. 2a) are usedto enhance the mixing of air and the fuel spray. However, otherembodiments can be used to accommodate a similar result. For example, asuspended fuel conditioning cavity having mesh walls, or a fuelconditioning cavity embedded within the walls of a reciprocatinginternal combustion engine having multiple air vents can be used. If airvents are added, the number and size can be configured to accommodateformation of a standing wave within the fuel conditioning cavity, oralternatively, can be configured to accommodate electromagneticreflectance from a reflective wall surface. The size of air vents can besmaller than the wavelength in the embodiments where a standing wave isformed, but will likely be larger than the wavelength in embodimentswhere energy is reflected and concentrated, i.e., no standing wavesformed due to very short wavelength compared to the dimension of thefuel conditioning cavity.

Additionally, FIG. 2a shows a removable fuel conditioning cavityembodiment where threads 32 have been incorporated around the cavity.Thus, the fuel conditioning cavity can be removed by screwing action(similar to the removal of a spark plug) if the fuel conditioning cavityis damaged, or for any other reason that may be necessary.

Turning now to FIGS. 3a-c, a method of the present invention isschematically represented. In FIG. 3a, stage 1 of the method is shown.In stage 1, both the generator 24 and the fuel injector 18 are in anactive mode. Thus, the electromagnetic waves 28 are either being emittedand reflected, or are in the form of a standing wave within the cavitywhen the fuel spray 20 is being injected. In FIG. 3b, stage 2 is shownwherein the injector 18 is in an inactive mode. However, the fuel spray20 is still present in the fuel conditioning cavity 22. Because the fuelspray is still in the fuel conditioning cavity, it is still in aposition wherein the electromagnetic waves 28 can cause volumetricvaporization of the fuel spray 20. Therefore, the electromagnetic waves28 can continue to be emitted, reflected, and/or resonated after thefuel injector 18 has been deactivated. As shown in FIG. 3c, the fuelspray 20 is no longer present in the fuel conditioning cavity 22. Asthere is no need to continue to introduce the electromagnetic waves 28into the fuel conditioning cavity, the electromagnetic waves canoptionally be switched off until the next fuel spray cycle begins.

With the systems and methods described above, in circumstances where theelectromagnetic wavelengths to be used are very short, e.g., infrared,it can be difficult to create a standing wave in a relatively large fuelconditioning cavity with respect to the size of the wavelength. This isparticularly true when the size of the fuel conditioning cavity is largeenough for a fuel spray to pass through without significantly contactingthe walls. Though the configuration of FIGS. 1-3 can be used for bothshorter and longer wavelengths, there are other embodiments that can bemore effective for concentrating shorter electromagnetic wave energy.

In FIGS. 4a and 4 b, a fuel conditioning system 10 that comprises a fuelconditioning cavity 22 having an elliptical cross-section with respectto the trajectory of the fuel spray 20 is shown. In a more optimizedsystem, the elliptical cross-section can be a mathematical ellipsehaving two focal points, X and X′. Such a fuel conditioning cavity 22configuration can comprise two focal axes that pass through the twofocal points of the cross-section. The fuel conditioning cavity 22 canbe defined by fuel conditioning cavity walls 21 having a reflectiveinner surface. For example, the fuel conditioning cavity walls 21 canoptionally comprise an optical mirror.

The electromagnetic energy source 50 is shown to be operable along afirst axis, designated as the electromagnetic energy source axis 48 ofthe two focal axes, and the energy concentrating region 52 is disposedalong a second axis of the two focal axes. The electromagnetic energysource 50 is operable within the fuel conditioning cavity 22, and isconfigured to emit electromagnetic energy toward the walls. The energyconcentrating region 52 is disposed within the fuel conditioning cavity22 and configured to receive reflected from the walls, thereby providingconcentrated energy in the energy concentrating region 52 that isgreater than in regions outside the energy concentrating region.

The fuel conditioning cavity also comprises a fuel injector 18 having adispensing end 19 configured for dispensing a fuel spray 20 with atrajectory through the energy concentrating region. In one embodiment,the electromagnetic energy source 50 can be configured to emit energyfrom several nodes 53 (points X, Y, and Z) along the electromagneticenergy source axis 48. Although only three such nodes 53 areillustrated, any number of nodes may be used. The reflective interiorwalls 21 can contain air vents 30 placed where the energy intensity isat a minimum. Preferably, the air vents 30 can be larger than about 100μm to allow the desired air flow.

The shape of the cross section of the fuel conditioning cavity can be amathematical ellipse such that the emitted electromagnetic energy 40(e.g., from each node 53 along the source axis 48) reflects from theinterior wall 21. Upon reflection, the electromagnetic energy 44 passesthrough or near the energy concentration region 52. By utilizing thisprinciple, a fuel conditioning cavity can be designed wherein amillimeter wave, or even shorter electromagnetic wave, can be focused orconcentrated at a predictable location within the fuel conditioningcavity. Along the energy concentrating region 52, a fuel spray 20 can beinjected from a fuel injector 18 such that the fuel can bevolumetrically vaporized as it passes through the energy concentratingregion 52.

Suitable emitting sources can include slot antennas, patch antennas,dielectric rods, light emitting rods, light emitting devices, (half)mirrors, nonlinear optical crystals, and/or any combination of them. Inone embodiment, the source may be configured to emit the electromagneticwaves perpendicular to its axis such that electromagnetic concentrationcan be maximized. Wavelengths can be used that correspond to molecularvibrational and/or rotational absorption frequencies such thatvolumetric vaporization can be enhanced. Also, certain embodiments ofthe present invention benefit from improved efficiency of thevaporization process by using longer fuel conditioning cavities.

Though the embodiments of FIGS. 4a and 4 b show a fuel conditioningcavity that has a mathematical ellipsoid cross-section, this is not theonly functional shape. Any cross-sectional shape can be used, providedthe electromagnetic energy source axis 48 and the energy concentratingregion 52 can be configured for effective volumetric vaporization of afuel spray. For example, a fuel conditioning cavity having a polygoncross-section can be used, provided enough concentrated energy can befocused along a fuel spray trajectory.

FIGS. 5a and 5 b shows a fuel conditioning system 10 comprising acylindrical fuel conditioning cavity 22 defined by reflective fuelconditioning cavity walls 21. In this embodiment, multipleelectromagnetic energy emitting sources 50 are situated along theinterior wall 21 of the cylindrical fuel conditioning cavity 22. Theelectromagnetic energy source 50 is operable within the fuelconditioning cavity, wherein the electromagnetic energy source isconfigured to emit electromagnetic energy toward the walls of theopposite side. As shown in FIG. 5b, the interior wall 21 can also beconfigured to reflect the electromagnetic energy at a position oppositethe electromagnetic energy emitting source 50. Also, an energyconcentrating region 52 is disposed along the center axis of the fuelconditioning cavity 22, wherein the electromagnetic energy is reflectedfrom the walls to a central energy concentrating region 52, therebyproviding greater energy at the energy concentrating region 52.Additionally, a fuel injector 18 having a dispensing end 19 configuredfor dispensing a fuel spray 20 with a trajectory through the energyconcentrating region is disposed within the fuel conditioning cavity 22.Thus, in one embodiment, emitted electromagnetic energy 40 (e.g., fromany point along each electromagnetic energy emitting source 50) can passinto or through the fuel spray 20, followed by reflected electromagneticenergy 44 from the interior wall 21 back through the fuel spray 20. Airvents (not shown) can be placed in the interior walls 21 between theelectromagnetic energy emitting sources 50 and the reflective areas toavoid interference with the electromagnetic energy used tovolumetrically vaporize the fuel droplets.

In FIGS. 6a and 6 b, a fuel conditioning system 10 is shown thatcomprises a parabolically shaped fuel conditioning cavity 22 having aparabolic reflective wall surface 21. An electromagnetic energy source50 is operable within the fuel conditioning cavity 22 and is configuredto emit electromagnetic energy toward the walls 21. An energyconcentrating region 52 is also disposed within the fuel conditioningcavity 22, wherein the electromagnetic energy is reflected from thewalls 21 to the energy concentrating region 52, thereby providingconcentrated energy in the energy concentrating region that is greaterthan in regions outside the energy concentrating region. Further, a fuelinjector 18 having a dispensing end 19 is configured for dispensing afuel spray 20 with a trajectory through the energy concentrating region52.

In this embodiment, the electromagnetic energy emitting source 50 may bemultiple single directional sources or a surface emitter, for example.Thus, the emitted electromagnetic energy or waves 40 are configured toreflect from interior walls 21 of or within the fuel conditioning cavity22. Reflected electromagnetic energy 44 then passes through an energyconcentrating region 52 (defined as transecting points X′ and Y′), orthrough specific points or nodes (X′ and/or Y′, for example). In otherwords, as in previously described embodiments, the electromagneticenergy emitting source 50 may emit energy such that energy isconcentrated continuously along the energy concentrating region 52, orat discreet nodes 53. Additionally, air vents (not shown) can be presentas described previously. The fuel spray 20 can then be ejected from thedispensing end 19 such that the fuel passes through the energyconcentrating region 52, thereby volumetrically vaporizing the fuelspray or droplets.

In FIGS. 7a and 7 b, a fuel conditioning system 10 is shown thatcomprises an optional fuel conditioning cavity 22 defined by optionalfuel conditioning cavity walls 21. In this embodiment, a fuelconditioning cavity is not necessary, as the electromagnetic energy 40is not necessarily reflected from a wall to provide energyconcentration. For example, the electromagnetic energy can be directedwithin a combustion chamber (not shown). A fuel injector 18 having adispensing end 19 for ejecting a fuel spray 20 into the fuelconditioning cavity is also present wherein the fuel spray 20 has apredetermined trajectory. An electromagnetic energy source 50 can beconfigured for introducing electromagnetic energy into the fuelconditioning cavity 22 through the trajectory. The electromagneticenergy source 50 can further be configured to effectuate volumetricheating of fuel spray droplets ejected from the fuel injector 18. Anenergy concentrating region 52 can also be disposed within the optionalfuel conditioning cavity 22. In this embodiment, the energyconcentrating region 52 is configured for receiving a greater energyconcentration from the electromagnetic energy source 50 than in regionsoutside the energy concentrating region.

In this embodiment, multiple electromagnetic energy emitting sources 50can be situated radially around the fuel injector 18. Thus, the emittedelectromagnetic energy or waves 40 are configured to pass through anenergy concentrating region 52. In other words, as in previouslydescribed embodiments, the electromagnetic energy emitting source 50 mayemit energy such that energy is concentrated continuously in the energyconcentrating region 52, or intermittently concentrated according tofuel spray cycles. Additionally, air vents (not shown) can be present asdescribed previously. The fuel spray 20 is therefore injected to passthrough the energy concentrating region 52 such that the fuel can bevolumetrically vaporized.

In FIGS. 8a and 8 b, a periodically poled lithium niobate deviceconfiguration 31 is shown. These FIGS. are provide to describe onpossible device configuration that can be used to introduceelectromagnetic waves into a fuel conditioning chamber. The periodicallypoled lithium niobate device implementation can comprise anelectromagnetic energy conduit 33, an optical coupler 35, a nonlinearwavelength converter 37, and a protective optical coupler 39. Initially,input electromagnetic energy 41 is introduced and conducted through theelectromagnetic energy conduit 33 prior to entering and passing throughthe optical coupler 35. Next, the electromagnetic energy enters andpasses through the PPLN 37. The electromagnetic energy then enters theprotective optical coupler 39 before being emitted into a fuelconditioning cavity. After passing through the protective opticalcoupler 39, the energy is in the form of emitted electromagnetic energy40. The periodically poled lithium niobate device can be used as theelectromagnetic energy or wave source of any of the previously describedembodiments.

In FIG. 9, an embodiment of a fuel conditioning system for use with anindirect fuel injection reciprocating internal combustion engine 13 isshown. Such a fuel conditioning system generally comprises an intakevalve 11, a combustion chamber wall 12 defining a combustion chamber 14,a piston head 16, and a fuel conditioning cavity wall 21 defining a fuelconditioning cavity 22, which is also the intake port (or intakemanifold) in conventional engines. The fuel conditioning cavity wall 21can optionally be configured for reflecting electromagnetic energy. Afuel injector 18 is also shown as well as a fuel spray 20 which ispresent at appropriate times in conjunction with the cyclic movement ofthe piston head, as is known by those skilled in the art. The fuelconditioning cavity 22 is present and is positioned such that the fuelspray 20 passes through the fuel conditioning cavity 22 before enteringthe combustion chamber 14. An electromagnetic energy source 24 is alsoshown which is configured to emit electromagnetic waves 28. Aperiodically poled lithium niobate device 31, for example, can be usedto couple the electromagnetic waves to the fuel conditioning cavity 22.Although a periodically poled lithium niobate device is shown, anyelectromagnetic energy or wave source suitable for use in accordancewith embodiments of the present invention can be used.

In FIGS. 10a and 10 b, an embodiment of a wireless spark plug 58 isshown. There, a nut 60 is present that can be used to insert or removethe spark plug from an engine cylinder. Threads 62 are present thatfunction similarly as a conventional spark plug. An insulator 64 can bepresent that is electrically non-conductive and can be fabricated from asubstance such as a ceramic or other suitable material capable ofwithstanding very high temperatures. In this embodiment, a ground ring66 comprising a metallic material is positioned across, but separated bya small gap 70, from several antennas which form an array of antennas68. The antennas 68 are looped such that a terminal end of each antennais positioned near the ground ring 66 forming the gap 70.

The wire antennas can be used to collect electromagnetic wave energy togenerate a spark, similar to conventional spark plugs, but without theadditional requirement of hard wiring the spark plugs to a power source.By selecting an electromagnetic wave frequency that is essentiallytransparent to a fuel vapor (whether conditioned according to thepresent invention or not) a spark can be created that serves to ignitevaporized gasoline. Such a design would be advantageous over otherelectromagnetic wave sparking systems because the spark would be stablewith respect to location and intensity. Additionally, by removing theneed for hard wiring of the spark plug, smaller wireless spark plugs canbe formed that are less complicated with respect to wiring. This createsthe possibility of including more spark plugs in a single combustionchamber, thereby increasing the ability for more rapid and more completecombustion.

FIGS. 11a and 11 b depict two alternative embodiments of wireless sparkplugs. In FIG. 11a, the ground ring 66 is positioned such that a portionis exterior to the insulator 64. Though an insulator 64 is shown in thisembodiment, it is not required. In other words, the threaded portion 62and the ground ring 66 can be directly connected to one another. In FIG.11b, there is no ground ring as a pair of antenna 68 are configured suchthat terminal ends of each antenna are in close proximity, forming theappropriate spark gap 70. Such a design can be advantageous because thespark generated by the two antenna 68 can be nearer to the center of thecombustion chamber. This can aid in more complete and more rapidcombustion of the fuel, as the point of ignition can be closer to thecenter of the fuel mass rather than near the point where the plug entersthe cylinder. Such a design can also be advantageous in that the lengthsof the antenna 68 could be selected so as to maximize the efficiencybetween the location of the spark relative to the cylinder and themagnitude of the spark as determined by the length of the antenna andthe wavelength of the electromagnetic waves. As shown, one of the twowire antenna 68 can be connected to the insulator 64 and the other isconnected to a conductive threaded portion 62. By configuring thewireless spark plug in this way, one of the two antenna can be energizedin a different mode than the other. In other words, one of the twoantenna can have a voltage maximum at or near the gap, and the otherwill not have a voltage maximum. Thus, a voltage difference between thetwo antenna 68 at the gap 70 will more readily aid in the creation of aspark.

The principle of a wireless spark plug can be based on a simple resonantwire antenna. When used in the present invention, the antenna receivesan electromagnetic wave having a wavelength according to the followingformulas:

 L=mλ/2

m=1,2,3,4,5, etc.

(FIGS. 10a, 10 b, and 11 b)

L=λ(1/4+n/2)

n=0,1,2,3,4,5, etc.

(FIG. 11a)

where L is the electrical length of the wire antenna (straight or bentas is known by those skilled in the art), λ is the wavelength, and m, nare integers of specified range. Such combination results in theformation of a standing wave, which is always maximum at the gap end ofthe antenna. In one embodiment, the gap end of the antenna is where theimpedance is at its highest because the gap end of the antenna isinsulated, and the current is correspondingly at a minimum at the gapend of the antenna.

The wireless spark plug utilizes these characteristics of a receivingantenna by using a various receiving antenna configurations to generateenough voltage differential to create a spark. For example, the antennareceiving device can be looped and terminated near a grounding devicesuch as a ground ring. Alternatively, the antenna receiving device canbe a pair of metal antenna that are positioned in close proximity at thegap, one being insulated and the other being directly connected to agrounded conductive portion of the spark plug. Regardless of thestructure used, the energy source must be configured such that a sparkcan be created at the gap by emitting microwave or other electromagneticenergy waves into a combustion chamber, effectuating an ignition of avaporized gasoline.

If the receiving device used is an insulated antenna, then the antennacan be configured in combination with an electrical conductor at a lowvoltage. The antenna terminates in one end at a point very close to, butnot in contact with, the grounded conductor. The resulting small gapbetween the antenna and the ground serves as a spark gap. As the voltageat the end of the antenna reaches a sufficiently high voltage inrelation to the ground voltage a spark is created in the spark gap. Thespark then serves as the ignition source for the fuel in a cylinder of areciprocating internal combustion engine.

FIG. 12 shows an alternate system for introducing electromagnetic wavesto a fuel conditioning chamber in a reciprocating internal combustionengine. Shown generally at 72 is a traveling wave resonator systemconfigured to create a resonant wave 73 inside an applicator chamber orfuel conditioning cavity 74. Resonance is achieved in the applicatorchamber 74 when the frequency of the circulating wave produced by anelectromagnetic wave generator 76 is an integer multiple of thefundamental resonant frequency of the resonant ring 78. A phase changer82 adjusts the phase of the traveling wave until resonance is achieved.A directional coupler 80 routes energy from the generator 76 to eitherthe phase changer 82 or a dummy load 84. When the resonant ring 78requires supplemental energy, the directional coupler 80 allowsadditional energy to enter the ring 78. When the ring does not requiresupplemental energy, the directional coupler 80 allows the energy fromthe generator 76 to drain into the dummy load 84.

FIG. 13 provides a more detailed view of the applicator chamber 74 shownin FIG. 12. Shown generally at 10 is a fuel conditioning system for usein a reciprocating internal combustion engine. The fuel conditioningsystem 10 is generally comprised of a combustion chamber wall 12defining a combustion chamber 14, and a piston head 16. A fuel injector18 is also shown as well as a fuel spray 20, which is present in thecylinder in conjunction with the cyclic movement of the piston head, asis known by those skilled in the art. In this embodiment, the fuel spray20 can pass through the applicator chamber or fuel conditioning cavity74 prior to entering the combustion chamber 14. The resonant wave 73 inthe applicator chamber 74 is created such that the frequency of theresonant wave 73 is within a range sufficient to effectuate enoughmolecular rotational and/or vibrational absorption to promote volumetricheating of the fuel spray 20.

The present embodiment is advantageous because the wavelength of theelectromagnetic wave can be chosen based on the molecular resonance ofthe fuel, without consideration of the physical size and shape of theapplicator chamber. Because the chamber resonance is achieved byadjusting the phase shifter, resonance can be achieved with anyfrequency of electromagnetic wave, regardless of the size or shape ofthe chamber. This freedom of choice of wavelengths allows for greaterfreedom in designing the applicator chamber and maximizing theefficiency of the system.

Turning to a more general discussion of the embodiments shown herein,and to equivalent embodiments, many variables can be altered, dependingon the application need. For example, electromagnetic energy wavelengthor frequency can be an important consideration for a specificapplication. To illustrate, a conventional microwave oven is operable ata typical frequency of 2.45 GHz, which provides functionality forheating lightly ionized bound water found in most food items. It isknown that cooking oil and other hydrocarbons with no moisture contentare transparent to the microwaves within this frequency range. Tovaporize gasoline or diesel fuel, or nearly any hydrocarbon thatcontains no water, it is necessary to either mix the fuel with lightlyionized moisture or to choose a different frequency range. Theintroduction of additional moisture into the engine combustion chamberis undesirable for various reasons.

For engine fuel typically used in reciprocating internal combustionengines, it is more practical to choose electromagnetic wave frequenciesthat can be absorbed by the fuel efficiently. Though any functionalfrequency is contemplated in accordance with the present invention inany of the previously described embodiments, it is preferred that afrequency from about 3 Giga Hertz (GHz) to 3 Peta Hertz (PHz) be used.Such a frequency range has corresponding wavelength of 0.1 μm to 10 cm,which is sufficiently large compared to fuel spray droplets which aretypically of a diameter of 20 mm or less. Such wavelengths can allow forrapid vaporization of the spray droplets by volumetric heating, asopposed to the current means of vaporization by heat conduction andconvection which vaporizes only the surface of the fuel droplets. In oneembodiment, a preferred wavelength to enhance rapid spray dropletvaporization of a typical hydrocarbon-based fuel would be within theinfrared region, which is from 1 μm to 12 μm An even more preferredwavelength range can be from 3 μm to 4 μm, or can be from 9 μm to 10 μm,depending on the fuel choice and/or cavity configuration.

To illustrate an embodiment where a choice of fuel can be matched to awavelength for good volumetric heating, one can consider the use ofenergy having a wavelength from 8 μm to 12 μm (preferably from 9 μm to10 μm) in the far-infrared region. For improved volumetric heating, onecan include a volumetric heating enhancer, such as an alcohol, in thefuel (or as the fuel itself). Examples include methanol and/or ethanol,and any of a number of other alcohols or other hydrocarbons as would beknown to those skilled in the art to absorb in this range.2-methoxy-2-methyl propane is another example of a well known fueladditive that is currently sold as an octane booster for gasoline, andwill absorb energy at about a 10 μm energy wavelength. In oneembodiment, a primary fuel, such as gasoline or diesel fuel, can bemixed with an energy absorbing enhancer at a functional ratio. Forexample, methanol, ethanol, and/or other enhancer known to absorb energyhaving a wavelength from about 9 μm to 10 μm can be used alone, or theenhancer can be added to the primary fuel. Functional ratios of theprimary fuel, e.g., diesel or gasoline, to the enhancer can be from 100%enhancer component to 0.0001% (1 ppm) enhancer component, either byweight or volume. The 9 μm to 10 μm wavelength range is provided by wayof example because such wavelengths can be generated easily by a CO₂laser, which is widely commercially available. Any wavelength describedherein can be used, provided the wavelength is functional for volumetricheating of the fuel used, whether the fuel is modified or not.

To illustrate another preferred embodiment, the electromagnetic wavesource can also be configured to introduce multiple electromagnetic wavefrequencies to the fuel conditioning cavity. It has been observed thatinfrared absorption-wavelength spectra of methane, ethane, propane,butane, octane, hexadecane, and ethanol, and the like, show high energyabsorption at wavelengths from about 3 μm to 4 μm. It is believed thatthe carbon-hydrogen bond at this wavelength can create volumetricheating by molecular vibrational energy absorption.

Where the electromagnetic energy waves are in the infrared region,optical material such as glass and silica becomes opaque. Therefore, itcan be advantageous to utilize calcium flouride (CaF₂) to construct anoptical component, which can act as a lens. It is contemplated that uponfurther advancements of optical technology, the modifications of suchoptics could be incorporated into this invention, including the use oflight sources capable of directly generating 3.5 μm waves, for example.

In order to effectuate the volumetric vaporization of the fuel, it ispreferred that the electromagnetic frequency/wavelength be matched witha molecular resonant wavelength of the fuel. Such resonant frequency canbe matched such that vibrational and/or rotational molecular resonantabsorption occur(s). Though the ideal is to use a resonant frequency asdescribed, any degree of either vibrational or rotational resonance thatis functional for providing volumetric conditioning or vaporization toany degree is within the scope of the present invention.

Regarding any of the above figures, or other embodiments describedherein, or equivalent structures or methods, fuels for which thesetechnologies can be used include gasolines, diesel fuels, oils,alcohols, biodiesel, other alternative fuels, modified fuels, fuelmixtures, and the like. However, there is a great need that has beenrecognized in the areas of gasoline and diesel fuel engines.Additionally, though all of the figures depict walls that are curved,this is not required in all embodiments. For example, one skilled in theart in possession of the present disclosure would recognize thatnon-curved walls could be used in some embodiments, including the use ofplanar and/or polygonal walls. Further, though the preferred embodimenttypically promotes volumetric heating through obtaining molecularresonance, this is not necessarily the only heating mechanism.

With this in mind, the present invention as previously described in anyof above embodiments can be drawn to fuel conditioning systems fordelivering fuel to a cylinder of a reciprocating internal combustionengine, where the fuel is delivered with either direct fuel injectionsystems or indirect fuel injection systems. The present invention alsodiscloses methods of conditioning fuel for use in an internal combustionengine. These inventions are unified by the use of electromagneticenergy to condition fuel in reciprocating internal combustion engines,increasing ignition energy, and generate sparks with respect to gasolineengines. By utilizing electromagnetic wave energy to condition orvolumetrically heat the fuel prior to ignition, a more completevaporization can result. For example, in a conventional fuel combustionprocess, liquid fuel is heated from the surface to the center byconduction and convection. Thus, the exterior of the fuel dropletvaporizes before the interior of the liquid fuel droplet. The vaporizedportion will then be rapidly combusted and the liquid center merelyslowly bums. This slow burn of the center of the liquid fuel dropletresults in incomplete combustion. Thus, a portion of the fuel droplet issent out of the combustion chamber as soot rather than as desiredexhaust, leading to soot build up and more undesirable emissions.Conversely, under the right conditions, electromagnetic waves can beused to heat fuel throughout its volume (both inside and out), asopposed to merely heating the surface or skin and relying on heatconduction and convection to heat the inside of the fuel volume. Inother words, by utilizing electromagnetic wave energy to heat the fueldroplet prior to ignition, the outer surface of the droplet can beheated simultaneously with the center of the droplet. As a result, noliquid center of the fuel droplet remains to slowly burn. Rather, theentire fuel droplet is vaporized volumetrically, and the entirevaporized droplet can be substantially completely combusted. One of theconditions that can be implemented to heat the fuel throughout itsvolume is to provide a fuel droplet that is comparable or smaller thanthe wavelength of the electromagnetic wave used. To illustrate, atypical fuel spray contains fuel droplets of about 20 μm in diameter,which is comparable to a wavelength of infrared. Thus, in anotherembodiment, electromagnetic energy of approximately 3 to 300 THz(wavelength of 100 μm to 1 μm, which is infrared) can generate volumeheating as described above.

The previously described embodiments, and equivalents thereof, maysufficiently transfer energy to the fuel with a single pass ofelectromagnetic energy. Thus, a fuel conditioning system may optionallynot contain a separate fuel conditioning cavity apart from thecombustion chamber. If, for example, microwave energy is used, then theelectromagnetic wave source can be coupled to the fuel conditioningcavity by a waveguide. Specifically, the waveguide can have a terminalinterface having a plug that is essentially invisible to microwaveenergy and acts to maintain pressure in the cylinder. A suitablematerial for such a plug is any ceramic material that is invisible tothe microwave energy, and is capable of withstanding the pressure andheat generated in a cylinder of an internal combustion engine.Particularly, with respect to diesel engines where very high pressuresare present, such a plug would be desired. If the thickness of theceramic plug is equal to one-half wavelength or one half wavelength plusan integer multiple of one wavelength (e.g., λ/2+nλ, n=0, 1, 2, 3, . . ., where λ is one wavelength), then the electromagnetic waves will merelypass through the plug with no reflection. In one embodiment, the plugcan be configured such that the walls taper away from the cylinder.Thus, if the waveguide at a terminal end is configured like a hornantenna, any positive pressure generated in the cylinder would wedge theplug against the walls of the horn, thereby preventing slippage of theplug into the waveguide.

In a gasoline engine, the internal condition of the chamber at themoment of ignition is typically at a pressure of from 3 to 5 atmosphere(atm) and a temperature of from 200° C. to 300° C. In a diesel engine,conditions can be as much as 10 atm and from 300° C. to 500° C. Typicalmicrowave generators, such as magnetrons and semiconductor devices, andtypical waveguides are not designed to withstand such conditions. Thus,the use of the plug as previously described can alleviate some of thisincompatibility.

The fuel conditioning system can additionally be used innon-reciprocating engines, where the combustion is continuous ratherthan intermittent. Examples of non-reciprocating engines that may bedesigned to incorporate a fuel conditioning system embodied by thepresent invention are jet engines, gas turbine engines, and furnaces.These examples operate in a steady state by continuous combustion, thus,the fuel conditioning system of the instant invention could beincorporated to vaporize fuel without igniting to allow for cleanerburning.

As stated previously, the present invention can be made to be applicablewith respect to both gasoline and diesel engines, as well as otherengines. If a gasoline engine is used, then an additional spark sourceis required. The spark source can be a conventional spark plug or awireless spark plug as described herein.

In either embodiment (self-igniting or spark igniting), the fuelconditioning cavity can be in the form of a geometric sleeve (e.g.,cylindrical, square, rectangular, polygonal, etc.) that protrudes intothe combustion chamber (as shown in FIGS. 3a-c). Alternatively, the fuelconditioning cavity can be embedded in the wall of the cylinder (asshown in FIGS. 1 and 2a-b). This is a more desirable configuration ascertain advantages can be realized with such a design. For example,because the temperature in a functioning combustion chamber is so high,the wall of the engine cylinder can be designed to act as a heat sink.Additionally, coolant could be circulated around the exterior of thecylinder, cooling the cylinder walls, and thus, cooling the walls of thefuel conditioning cavity. Regardless of the design used, the fuelconditioning cavity could be configured in a shape that promotes theeffective creation of a standing wave. Additionally, the walls of thefuel conditioning cavity should be reflective with respect to theelectromagnetic waves which are used to condition the fuel.

In the embodiments described previously, the fuel conditioning cavitycan be separated from the combustion chamber by a valve allowing thefuel conditioning cavity to be separated from the combustion chamberserves to enhance fuel drop volumetric heating or vaporization. Theenhanced vaporization can also be substantially complete prior totransfer into the combustion chamber. The valve serves to operate as anintermittent opening, which intermittently fluidly couples the fuelconditioning cavity with the combustion chamber.

It is also contemplated that in all previously described embodiments,air vents may be used to fluidly connect the fuel conditioning cavitywith the combustion chamber to facilitate the mixing of air with thefuel spray. Additionally, the fuel conditioning cavity can be fluidlycoupled to the combustion chamber without air vents, and optionally canbe made to be removable, e.g., by providing screw threads as shown inFIG. 2a. This would be advantageous if the fuel conditioning cavity wereto become damaged, or for any other reason. In such a circumstance, thefuel conditioning cavity portion could be replaced without replacing theentire combustion chamber or the air intake manifold. As the fuelconditioning cavity is not strictly required in all of the embodimentsprovided, structures other than the fuel conditioning cavity can also bemade to be removable. For example, the electromagnetic wave source canbe removable.

A method for conditioning fuel for use in a reciprocating internalcombustion engine is also disclosed that can utilize the any of theillustrated structures, or equivalent structures. The method comprisesthe steps of injecting fuel into a fuel conditioning cavity defined bywalls within a reciprocating internal combustion engine; and emittingelectromagnetic waves into the fuel conditioning cavity and reflectingthe electromagnetic waves from the cavity walls into the fuel spray tocause molecular vibrational resonant absorption with respect to the fuelspray. The method for conditioning fuel can further comprising the stepof correlating an electromagnetic wavelength, a fuel conditioning cavitydimension, and a fuel resonant frequency such that an electromagneticstanding wave is formable that effectuates volumetric heating of thefuel spray droplet. Alternatively, the method for conditioning fueloptionally provides a fuel conditioning cavity at least partiallydefining the fuel conditioning cavity by an optical mirror, therebyproviding a surface such that reflected electromagnetic waves, onceintroduced into the fuel conditioning cavity, are reflected through thefuel spray. The step of introducing electromagnetic waves can comprisethe use of electromagnetic waves from 0.1 μm to 10 cm in wavelength. Inone embodiment, the introduced electromagnetic waves can be in theinfrared region. In another embodiment, the electromagnetic waves can befrom 3 μm to 4 μm in wavelength. In yet another embodiment, theelectromagnetic waves can be from 9 μm to 10 μm in wavelength. In thetwo latter embodiments, the electromagnetic waves can be introduced by aperiodically poled lithium niobate device, or a CO₂ laser device,respectively. The method for conditioning fuel can be operated within areciprocating internal combustion engine can be by a direct fuelinjection system or an indirect fuel injection system, a.k.a. intakeport injection system.

It is to be understood that the above-referenced arrangements areillustrative of the application for the principles of the presentinvention. Numerous modifications and alternative arrangements can bedevised without departing from the spirit and scope of the presentinvention while the present invention has been shown in the drawings anddescribed above in connection with the exemplary embodiments(s) of theinvention. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the artthat numerous modifications can be made without departing from theprinciples and concepts of the invention as set forth in the claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A reciprocating internal combustion engine forenhanced fuel efficiency, comprising: (a) a combustion chamber; (b) afuel conditioning cavity defined by walls fluidly connected to thecombustion chamber; (c) a fuel injector system for ejecting a fuel spraythrough the fuel conditioning cavity; and (d) an electromagnetic wavesource configured for introducing infrared electromagnetic waves intothe fuel conditioning cavity, and in the fuel spray to effectuatevolumetric heating of droplets of the fuel spray ejected from the fuelinjector.
 2. A reciprocating internal combustion engine for enhancedfuel efficiency according to claim 1, wherein the fuel conditioningcavity and the electromagnetic wave source are configured to correlatean electromagnetic wavelength, a fuel conditioning cavity dimension, anda fuel molecular absorption resonant frequency such that anelectromagnetic standing wave is formable and effectuates volumetricheating of the fuel spray droplets.
 3. A reciprocating internalcombustion engine for enhanced fuel efficiency according to claim 1,wherein the fuel conditioning cavity is at least partially defined by anoptical mirror that reflects electromagnetic waves through the fuelspray.
 4. A reciprocating internal combustion engine for enhanced fuelefficiency according to claim 1, wherein the fuel conditioning cavityforms at least a part of the combustion chamber.
 5. A reciprocatinginternal combustion engine for enhanced fuel efficiency according toclaim 1, further comprising a traveling wave resonator system having aresonant ring configured for introducing the electromagnetic waves intothe fuel conditioning cavity.
 6. A reciprocating internal combustionengine for enhanced fuel efficiency according to claim 1, wherein theelectromagnetic waves are from 3 μm to 4 μm in wavelength.
 7. Areciprocating internal combustion engine for enhanced fuel efficiencyaccording to claim 1, wherein the electromagnetic waves are from 9 μm to10 μm in wavelength.
 8. A reciprocating internal combustion engine forenhanced fuel efficiency according to claim 1, wherein theelectromagnetic wave source is configured to introduce theelectromagnetic waves into the fuel conditioning cavity via aperiodically poled lithium niobate device.
 9. A reciprocating internalcombustion engine for enhanced fuel efficiency according to claim 1,wherein the electromagnetic wave source is configured to introducemultiple electromagnetic wave frequencies to the fuel conditioningcavity.
 10. A reciprocating internal combustion engine for enhanced fuelefficiency according to claim 1, wherein the fuel conditioning cavityfurther includes a plurality of air vents.
 11. A reciprocating internalcombustion engine for enhanced fuel efficiency according to claim 4,wherein the fuel conditioning cavity is removable from the combustionchamber.
 12. A fuel conditioning system for delivering fuel to a chamberof a reciprocating internal combustion engine, comprising: (a) a fuelconditioning cavity defined by walls having a reflective inner surface,(b) an electromagnetic energy source operable within the fuelconditioning cavity and configured to emit and reflect infraredelectromagnetic energy from the reflective inner surface; (c) an energyconcentrating region disposed within the fuel conditioning cavity forreceiving reflected electromagnetic energy as concentrated energy thatis greater than in regions outside the energy concentrating region; and(d) a fuel injector having a dispensing end configured and oriented fordispensing a fuel spray with a trajectory through the energyconcentrating region.
 13. A fuel conditioning system according to claim12, wherein the fuel conditioning cavity has an elliptical cross-sectionwith respect to the fuel spray trajectory.
 14. A fuel conditioningsystem according to claim 13, wherein the elliptical cross-section is amathematical ellipse having two focal points, and wherein the fuelconditioning cavity comprises two focal axes that pass through the twofocal points of the cross-section.
 15. A fuel conditioning systemaccording to claim 14, wherein the electromagnetic energy source isdisposed along a first axis of the two focal axes, and the energyconcentrating region is disposed along a second axis of the two focalaxes.
 16. A fuel conditioning system according to claim 12, wherein theelectromagnetic energy passes through the fuel spray at a plurality oflocations along the energy concentrating region.
 17. A fuel conditioningsystem according to claim 12, wherein the reflective inner surfacecomprises a parabola.
 18. A fuel conditioning system according to claim17, wherein the energy concentrating region is substantially located ata focal region of the parabola.
 19. A fuel conditioning system accordingto claim 12, wherein the electromagnetic energy source is disposed alongat least one of said walls within the fuel conditioning cavity.
 20. Afuel conditioning system according to claim 19, further comprising aplurality of electromagnetic energy sources disposed along at least oneof said walls within the fuel conditioning cavity.
 21. A fuelconditioning system according to claim 12, wherein the fuel conditioningcavity is substantially cylindrical.
 22. A fuel conditioning systemaccording to claim 21, wherein the energy concentrating region isdisposed along a center axis of the cylinder.
 23. A fuel conditioningsystem according to claim 12, wherein the electromagnetic energy sourceintroduces electromagnetic waves into the fuel conditioning cavity via aperiodically poled lithium niobate device.
 24. A fuel conditioningsystem according to claim 12, wherein at least one of said wallscomprises an optical mirror.
 25. A fuel conditions system according toclaim 12, further comprising a combustion chamber, said combustionchamber fluidly coupled to the fuel conditioning cavity.
 26. A fuelconditioning system according to claim 25, wherein the fuel conditioningcavity is removable from the combustion chamber.
 27. A fuel conditioningsystem according to claim 12, wherein the fuel conditioning cavitycomprises a plurality of air vents.
 28. A fuel conditioning systemaccording to claim 12, wherein the electromagnetic energy compriseselectromagnetic waves that are from 3 μm to 4 μm in wavelength.
 29. Afuel conditioning system according to claim 12, wherein theelectromagnetic energy comprises electromagnetic waves that are from 9μm to 10 μm in wavelength.
 30. A fuel conditioning system according toclaim 12, wherein the fuel injector operates as a direct fuel injectionsystem.
 31. A fuel conditioning system according to claim 12, whereinthe fuel injector operates as an indirect fuel injection system.
 32. Afuel conditioning system according to claim 12, wherein theelectromagnetic energy source introduces multiple electromagnetic wavefrequencies to the fuel conditioning cavity.
 33. A fuel conditioningsystem for delivering fuel to a chamber of a reciprocating internalcombustion engine, comprising: (a) a fuel conditioning cavity defined bywalls; (b) a fuel injector for ejecting a fuel spray into the fuelconditioning cavity, said fuel spray having a trajectory; (c) anelectromagnetic energy source configured for introducing infraredelectromagnetic energy into the fuel conditioning cavity through thetrajectory, said electromagnetic energy source being further configuredto effectuate volumetric heating of fuel spray droplets ejected from thefuel injector; and (d) an energy concentrating region disposed withinthe fuel conditioning cavity, wherein the electromagnetic energy isreceived from the electromagnetic energy source, said energyconcentrating region configured for receiving a greater energyconcentration from the electromagnetic energy source than in regionsoutside the energy concentrating region.
 34. A fuel conditioning systemaccording to claim 33, wherein the electromagnetic energy sourceintroduces the electromagnetic waves to the fuel conditioning cavity viaa periodically poled lithium niobate device.
 35. A fuel conditioningsystem according to claim 33, further comprising a combustion chamber,said combustion chamber fluidly coupled to fuel conditioning cavity. 36.A fuel conditioning system according to claim 33, wherein the fuelconditioning cavity is a combustion chamber.
 37. A fuel conditioningsystem according to claim 33, wherein the surface defining the fuelconditioning cavity is configured for reflecting electromagnetic energy.38. A fuel conditioning system according to claim 33, wherein the fuelconditioning cavity is removable from the combustion chamber.
 39. A fuelconditioning system according to claim 33, wherein the electromagneticenergy comprises electromagnetic waves from 3 μm to 4 μm in wavelength.40. A fuel conditioning system according to claim 33, wherein theelectromagnetic energy comprises electromagnetic waves from 9 μm to 10μm in wavelength.
 41. A fuel conditioning system according to claim 33,wherein the fuel injector operates as a direct fuel injection system.42. A fuel conditioning system according to claim 33, wherein the fuelinjector operates as an indirect fuel injection system.
 43. A method forconditioning fuel for use in a reciprocating internal combustion engine,comprising: (a) injecting fuel into a fuel conditioning cavity definedby walls within a reciprocating internal combustion engine; and (b)emitting infrared electromagnetic waves into the fuel conditioningcavity and reflecting the electromagnetic waves from the cavity wallsinto the fuel spray to cause molecular vibrational resonant absorptionwith respect to the fuel spray.
 44. A method for conditioning fuelaccording to claim 43, further comprising the step of correlating anelectromagnetic wavelength, a fuel conditioning cavity dimension, andfuel resonant frequency to form an electromagnetic standing wave thateffectuates volumetric heating of the fuel spray droplet.
 45. A methodfor conditioning fuel according to claim 43, wherein the step ofinjecting fuel into the fuel conditioning cavity includes at leastpartially defining the fuel conditioning cavity by an optical mirror,thereby providing a surface such that reflected electromagnetic waves,once introduced into the fuel conditioning cavity, are reflected throughthe fuel spray.
 46. A method for conditioning fuel according to claim43, wherein the step of emitting electromagnetic waves includeselectromagnetic waves from 3 μm to 4 μm in wavelength.
 47. A method forconditioning fuel according to claim 43, wherein the step of emittingelectromagnetic waves includes electromagnetic waves from 9 μm to 10 μmin wavelength.
 48. A method for conditioning fuel according to claim 43,wherein the step of emitting electromagnetic waves is by a periodicallypoled lithium niobate device.
 49. A method for conditioning fuelaccording to claim 43, wherein the ejecting step is by a direct fuelinjection system.
 50. A method for conditioning fuel according to claim43, wherein the ejecting step is by an indirect fuel injection system.51. A method for conditioning fuel according to claim 43, wherein thefuel conditioning cavity is a combustion chamber.